On Sept. 16, more than 1,000 high school students from Rhode Island and southern New England showed their school spirit by wearing colorful costumes and participating in the fourth annual Tufts Health Plan High School Inspirational 3K. The annual school spirit costume contest has grown over the past four years, promoting the importance of exercise and having fun.

The Tufts Health Plan High School Inspirational 3K was one of many fitness events that occurred as part of the CVS Caremark Downtown 5K, Rhode Island’s largest road race.

"We are excited to partner with CVS Caremark to promote the critical role physical activity plays in achieving personal wellness," said Brian Pagliaro, senior vice president of sales, marketing and client services at Tufts Health Plan. "We are committed to improving the health of the community and recognize that lifelong health habits are developed at an early age. This is a fun opportunity for high school students to share our passion and enthusiasm for the creation of healthier lifestyles."

Runners included dozens of high school track and cross country teams who competed dressed in their best school spirit costumes. Toll Gate High School stood out to the judges with their creative and comedic "Senior Citizens" theme, with students remaining in character even after judging concluded, showing that wellness can be embraced at all ages. Along with the Toll Gate team, other schools showed off themes, including Wizard of Oz, superheroes and Olympians, to name a few.

The winning Toll Gate High School team was awarded with new track uniforms, valued up to $750. All participants in the costume contest received a complimentary stopwatch and towels, and all participating high school teams were eligible for 10 random drawings for a $500 cash grant from Tufts Health Plan. All runners also received a T-shirt and goody bag.